Mill closing affects more than a thousand workers

by Dave Baird

International Paper is closing its mill in North Alabama, leaving 1,100 workers without jobs. The Memphis, Tennessee based, company says the plant in Courtland will shut down by early 2014. In a statement, International Paper says it looked at different options, but it decided a permanent shutdown was best.

The mill makes a type of paper that's used in magazines, forms, copiers and printers. International Paper says demand is down as customers switch to online publications and electronic billing and record-keeping. The company says it will work with union officials on benefits and other help for hourly workers. Salaried employees can get severance packages and other aid.